Cedar Rapids hopes for an eventual permanent flood plan

In the midst of major flood warnings, Cedar Rapids is determined to meet the rising waters more prepared than ever.

The city has dealt with major flooding before, suffering millions in infrastructure damage during the 2008 flood. This year, after heavy snow brought along predictions of a bad flood season, Cedar Rapids has been doubling down on their flood defenses.

Temporary measures are keeping small crests in the water level away from downtown businesses and residences. The city uses HESCO barriers–a physical blockade originally used to protect soldiers on the front line from bullets during war. The company has been selling their products to cities for flood protection for years.

Cedar Rapids aims to have a permanent flood plan, one that will take years of building and a few hundred million to bring to fruition. But, for now, business owners trust in HESCO, and in the competence of the city leaders who have lived through their fair share of flooding.